Union of South Africa officially ceases to exist

In March 1961, at a Conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers held in London, the South African Prime Minister, H.F. Verwoerd formally announced that South Africa was changing from a Constitutional Monarchy to a Republic. Subsequently, the Union of South Africa, which was established in 1910 by the British government under the premiership of Louis Botha, ceased to exist at midnight on 30 May 1961. The Union left the British Commonwealth to become the Republic of South Africa under the leadership of Verwoerd. The country was criticised for its Apartheid policies by members of the Commonwealth. In just three years after taking office, Verwoerd realised his Republican dream when a 'White-only' referendum supported him. This was also the first time in 12 years of government that the National Party (NP) was able to gain a majority in parliament. South Africa rejoined the Commonwealth in June 1994.